Regular roof cleaning is a crucial part of overall roof maintenance, helping to prolong the lifespan of your roof and prevent costly issues. But the first thing that you need to know about pressure washing or soft washing your roof is that it’s more dangerous than it looks. If you want to try cleaning your roof as a DIY project, there are some things that you should know. Here is a quick guide from the professionals on pressure washing the roof of your house.
TIPS FOR PRESSURE WASHING A ROOF
Your shingles may look like they’ll provide enough traction to safely mount your roof, but wet algae can be as slick as oil. Absolutely do not climb your roof shortly after the last rain. Wait for the surface to dry, don’t set foot on the wet spots while you’re cleaning, and make sure someone is around to help if you do slip.
With all of that considered, let’s get down to the job itself. Using appropriate cleaning products for different roof materials is crucial for effectively removing grime, streaks, and stubborn stains. These cleaning products are essential whether you are performing the task yourself or hiring a professional. Additionally, hiring a professional roof cleaner can be highly beneficial for challenging roof conditions, ensuring the job is done safely and effectively.
Start On The Far End From The Ladder
You don’t want to spray yourself into a corner, so once you step off the ladder, walk to the other corner of the roof and work your way back towards the ladder. This way, you won’t risk stepping on any wet shingles.
Inspect The Roof
Look for any problem spots, areas that will need an extra thorough cleaning, loose shingles, spots that need to be repaired, and debris buildup. Do this step before you start cleaning. You want to know what you’re up against and avoid any unpleasant surprises that will slow the job down. Steep roofs can be particularly challenging to clean and may require professional help.
Begin With Detergent
Start with a biodegradable detergent to loosen up the algae and moss that may have grown on your shingles and kill any possible mold. It is crucial to use specialized solutions designed for different roof types to ensure effective cleaning and safety. The right cleaning solution is essential to address the unique needs of various roof types and conditions. The best way to apply the detergent is with a foamer or a soap shooter. The goal is to loosen the algae so that it’s easier to clean and doesn’t cling to the shingles and remove particles when sprayed off. Allow the detergent to sit for a while on the areas most affected by algae and grime. The key here is to use a lot of cleaner. The more cleaner you use, the less rinsing/washing you will have to do.
Use A Lower Setting
Your shingles are a little more delicate than they look. High-pressure washing can damage certain roofing materials, such as asphalt, slate, and tile, and may even void their warranties. It is crucial to use the right pressure setting to avoid damaging the roofing material. At the highest settings, some pressure washers can punch a hole in the drywall. The best way to find the right setting is to set it at LOWER power, then adjust it up and down until you find the right flow.
Spray Down, Not Up
When you see how far a pressure washer can spray, you might wonder why you don’t just blast your roof from the ground and skip the ladder entirely. You always want to spray down, not up. Spraying down helps maintain a clean roof by ensuring that water doesn’t get trapped under the shingles and cause mold damage.
Move The Sprayer, Not The Power Setting
When a little more pressure is needed, apply more concentrated cleaner rather than adjusting the pressure setting. Soft washing is the best way to get your roof clean without doing more damage than it prevents.
Check For Damage
When standing straight up, you might not be able to see the damage at eye level. After spraying some shingles, squat down (carefully) to get a look and make sure that you don’t have the pressure up too high. You want to keep checking as you go, and generally only clean a few shingles at a time.
MORE CONSIDERATIONS TO KEEP IN MIND
- You only need to treat your roof to a power washing once every year or two. More often than that, you may wind up subjecting it to more wear and tear than it’s built to withstand in a short amount of time.
- The inverse is true, as well. The roof of your home does need to be cleaned every now and then. Algae can ruin the appearance of your roof, and mold can cause long-term damage, creating leaks. Your insurer probably requires you to keep your roof clean in order for your policy to remain valid.
- If you don’t have power washing training, it’s a good idea to consider professional help on this one. The job is both delicate and dangerous, which is always a tricky combination if you’re not completely comfortable with the task at hand. Safety precautions are crucial when cleaning a roof, especially for homes with steep roofs or multiple stories.
- Pressure washing and soft washing aren’t exactly the same thing. Pressure washing allows the water to come out at full force and is preferred for cleaning concrete, brick, and industrial buildings. For most residential roofs, soft washing, which uses a special nozzle to limit the PSI of the sprayer, will be more than strong enough for the job.
We recommend enlisting a pro to handle the job. Hiring a professional roof cleaning service ensures that the job is done safely and effectively. Professionals use better equipment and cleaning products, and they understand the necessary safety precautions, which can prevent accidents and damage to your roof. But if you are going to try to tackle the job yourself, remember: safety, first and foremost. Gloves, goggles, and slip-resistant shoes are absolutely necessary. And don’t forget the sunscreen.
Get more seasonal home maintenance advice from the experts: Is Your Roof Ready to Withstand the Winter?
MAKE YOUR LIFE EASIER WITH TROTTA’S POWER WASHING
Keeping your house looking great and maintaining your investment doesn’t have to consume all your free time. Why spend another weekend doing home improvement projects when you can call in the pros? Choosing the right roofing companies for roof cleaning and maintenance is crucial to ensure the longevity and appearance of your home. Trotta’s Power Washing offers a wide range of residential services, including pressure washing, roof cleaning, and interior/exterior painting. Hiring reputable roof cleaning companies ensures you receive quality service and professional results.
Located in Peninsula, OH, we’re your local expert in household maintenance. Get in touch with Trotta’s at (330) 940-3705 or request a free quote.